About: Susan

Susan O. Stephan is a credentialed Spanish Teacher in the state of California who earned her Master’s degree in Educational Linguistics from the University of Pennsylvania. She has taught in Spain, Japan and the United States. She teaches Spanish at a 7-12 public school in southern California, she also uses her teaching skills with her sons and in her Spanish speaking play groups.

Children love computers and the Internet, and as our world becomes ever more technologically advanced, it is imperative that we give them the tools to explore and learn using technology. Fortunately, technology can also be a valuable tool in our efforts to raise bilingual children. There are numerous on-line stories in Spanish, videogames and websites. The Internet also gives our children the chance to explore other countries and cultures preparing them for our ever-increasing global society. I absolutely love teachingRead More&nbsp...

I love technology! Not only is it fun to use, but my students love when I use it in the classroom. Whenever, I assign a project, I try to incorporate technology since it engages and stimulates the students. Learning Spanish becomes more meaningful and exciting in the lives of young people when modern technology is incorporated into a lesson. Recently I have discovered that this same phenomenon occurs with my own sons. Inspired by Ana’s posts on the educational appsRead More&nbsp...

Reading plays a critical role in raising a bilingual child. My sons and I always enjoy reading books together. Thanks to modern technology, we are able to have a wide range of exciting and interactive reading experiences. While traditional books have always been fun, we also enjoy stories and books on-line. The website Speakaboos offers an engaging and interactive way to develop your child’s reading skills. This educational site features well-known and fun stories presented through video. The text isRead More&nbsp...

Back in 1997 I was a graduate student in Philadelphia finishing a degree for Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL). The study of language acquisition was an important part of the program. My classmates and professors all valued the ability to speak other languages, and therefore, we were shocked and confused when we learned of a proposition on the ballot in California which would institute an English only language policy throughout public schools in the state. I had spentRead More&nbsp...

I can’t imagine the Christmas season without music. I love that holiday music is played almost everywhere at this time of the year. Music has been an important part of our family celebrations for as long as I can remember. During our parties, we sing and play musical instruments together, enjoying both the music and the time with our loved ones. My interest in music was fostered from a young age. When I was in second grade, my school offeredRead More&nbsp...

I love being a mom! Watching my children learn and discover new things is truly amazing. It is amazing to see how my boys change as they grow. Being a mom has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The joy and happiness that my children bring into my life is hard to describe, but other moms understand that feeling without any words needing to be said. Being a good mom presents challenges. I was finding itRead More&nbsp...